Dr. Richard Parsanko runs Sonoran Desert Dentistry in Scottsdale, Arizona. Here, he explains what a cavity is, who is at risk, and what you can do to prevent yourself from getting one.
What is a cavity?
A cavity, which basically looks like a black hole in your tooth, is an infection caused by bacteria in the mouth giving off acids that eat holes in the enamel of the teeth.
Who is at risk for cavities?
1. People with lowered immune systems.
2. People with weak tooth enamel. This is why it’s important to get regular doses of fluoride, which strengthens tooth enamel, from your drinking water, toothpaste, or other sources.
3. People with poor dental hygiene. Those who don’t floss and brush regularly are more likely to get cavities. Studies show that flossing regularly is more important than brushing regularly – but you must do both! Visit your dentist at least once every six months for a teeth cleaning.
4. People with poor diets. To form a cavity, the bacteria have to have food to survive on. So people who eat a lot of sugars and acids and leave them on their teeth can get cavities quickly. So watch your diet and limit those carbonated sports and energy drinks, soft drinks, and sugary foods.
5. People who are on certain medications. Medications that dry out your mouth can contribute to cavities. These include certain anti-anxiety drugs, blood pressure drugs, heart drugs, and even over-the-counter allergy pills. Your saliva acts as a car wash for your teeth, bringing in white blood cells to disinfect your mouth, and when there isn’t much of it, you’re going to be more susceptible to tooth decay.
The reasons are often multifactorial because many of them are interdependent. For example, someone with a bad diet is more likely to have bad hygiene and weak tooth enamel.
What is the biggest factor that contributes to cavities?
Poor dental hygiene.
What do dentists prescribe to fight cavities?
For people who get a lot of cavities, I prescribe a gel-form fluoride treatment. We make custom fluoride trays for these patients and have put the gel on for about five minutes a day.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
